Space2 Grow
OUR VISION “Create a vibrant community garden accessible to all” OUR MISSION “To improve physical, mental wellbeing and social cohesion through a garden scheme run by, and for, the local community”. As a community gym facility, we are well placed and qualified to deliver physical wellbeing to the local community. We are all aware of the physical and mental benefits of exercise and physical activity however this will only work for those who participate and attend our gym. During 2020 we used the recent pandemic lockdown periods to discuss and review how we can also support the mental wellbeing of the local community. This has led to broad discussions with other local community business owners and we have identified a way to engage those who would not otherwise use our gym facility.
Around our facility we aim to develop a ‘Community garden and allotment scheme’ which would be accessible to a wide range of users as a means to help improve mental wellbeing.
The benefits of being outside in nature are well proven and the gentle exercise will help physically and mentally. Community gardens can be a powerful added ingredient of social cohesion. Shared experiences and goals work wonders to promote understanding between the volunteers taking part. With plenty of jobs on hand there will something to suit every ability or skill, so it’s an exceptionally inclusive way of bringing people together. Where else but a community garden can you come for an hour or two, enjoy a lively natter and see your work come to fruition.
We aim to ensure we have raised beds as we are aware this will also encourage accessibility for those with mobility issues and wheelchair access.
By using community champions to help oversee the volunteers, the champions will be on hand to offer experience and advice to ensure all planning, planting and growth of any ingredient can be utilised and set our seasonally.
Through a locally owned and run business, they have also offered to help manage some produce to help create a monthly or bi-monthly community-meal whereby some produce can be used to create free meals and an opportunity to regain the community spirit.